Title: Bubble Nebula NGC-7635
Resolution: 3840 x 2160

The Bubble Nebula, also known as NGC 7635, is a stunning emission nebula located in the constellation Cassiopeia. It was discovered by the astronomer William Herschel in 1787. The nebula gets its name from the bubble-like appearance created by the stellar wind and radiation from a massive, hot, young central star.

Here are some key features and information about the Bubble Nebula:

  1. Location:
    • The Bubble Nebula is situated in the northern constellation Cassiopeia. It is part of the larger region of nebulosity associated with the open cluster M52.
  2. Coordinates:
    • Right Ascension: 23h 20m 48s
    • Declination: +61° 11′ 54″
  3. Distance:
    • The distance to the Bubble Nebula is estimated to be around 7,100 light-years from Earth.
  4. Emission Nebula:
    • The Bubble Nebula is classified as an emission nebula, meaning it is composed of ionized gases that emit light of various colors. The primary gas in the nebula is hydrogen.
  5. Stellar Wind and Ionization:
    • At the center of the Bubble Nebula is a massive young star known as BD+602522. This star’s intense ultraviolet radiation ionizes the surrounding hydrogen gas, causing it to emit the characteristic red glow seen in hydrogen-alpha light.
  6. Bubble Structure:
    • The bubble-like structure of the nebula is created by the stellar wind from the central star pushing against the surrounding interstellar medium. This forms a shell of ionized gas that appears as a bubble.
  7. Hubble Space Telescope Image:
    • The Bubble Nebula has been the subject of several stunning images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope. These images reveal intricate details of the nebula’s structure, including the bubble and the surrounding gas and dust.
  8. Interaction with Interstellar Medium:
    • The interaction between the stellar wind from the central star and the surrounding interstellar medium is a dynamic process. The bubble is continually expanding as the star sheds material.
  9. Associated Open Cluster M52:
    • The Bubble Nebula is often associated with the open cluster M52. The cluster and the nebula are part of the same region of star formation in Cassiopeia.
  10. Observation:
    • The Bubble Nebula is a popular target for amateur astronomers. It is visible through small telescopes and can be especially striking in astrophotographs that capture the delicate details of the nebula’s structure.

The Bubble Nebula stands out as a beautiful example of the complex interplay between massive stars and the surrounding interstellar medium, creating a visually captivating astronomical object.